Silo Ridge - Harlem Valley Times

7/7/2006 - Silo Ridge respected among golfers

Amenia
Silo Ridge respected among golfers
7/7/2006
By: Oren Phillips, Staff Reporter

Off Route 22 in Amenia there is a spot where golfers from all over travel to test their skills on the greens and take in the natural beauty of the area, and Silo Ridge County Club is more than happy to accommodate them.

Since opening its greens 14 years ago, the club has seen an increase in the number of golfers each season, and word of mouth spread quickly amongst putters.

"I'd say about 20% of our clients are from New York City, which is 90 minutes from here," said Peter Bakker, golf pro at the course. "Because of our location, most of the golfers probably travel at least 30 minutes to get here. I think it says something that they are willing to go the distance to play here, and most of our business is repeat customers. "

This season has been particularly difficult on Silo Ridge due to the lack of cooperation by Mother Nature.

"We were able to open a month early, which was nice, but all the rain has made things rough," said Bakker.

One thing the employees at the club pride themselves on is the conditions of the courses.

"They are the best around. We work hard to keep the greens in excellent shape," said Bakker.

Golfers have come to learn that playing at Silo Ridge is a true test of their skills, but players of all skill levels enjoy teeing off.

"It is a challenging course, but very user friendly. The back nine are pretty tough," said the golf pro. "I enjoy playing the course. It is easy to play, but difficult to score on. Each game is very different and there are always new challenges. "

Silo Ridge handles on average 30,000 rounds of golf per year, which equals close to 166 golfers a day over the six months or so the course is open.

"We receive lots of compliments from golfers after they finish their rounds," said Bakker.

The course is approximately 6,617 yards long and has a 72 par.

During the golf season, the course is open all week, with the first tee-time scheduled for 6:45 a.m. until dark.

For more information call Silo Ridge at (845) 373-9200.